CONNECTICUT VETERANS HALL OF FAME

CONNECTICUT VETERANS HALL OF FAME History

Governor M. Jodi Rell created the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame by Executive Order in 2005 to recognize the post-military achievements of outstanding veterans and to spotlight the substantial contributions of veterans to communities across the state. Governor Rell believed this was a critical time in state history to establish this honor and institution as more than 12,000 Connecticut citizens have performed military service in support of the Global War on Terrorism since September 11, 2001. The Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame was established to increase the awareness of the lifetime contributions of veterans after completion of honorable military service. The Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame is not a military hall of fame. Those selected for the honor of induction are veterans who honorably served their country through military service and who continue to serve and inspire their fellow man with their deeds and accomplishments throughout their lifetime. Each year the committee selects at least 10 inductees from applications received from across the state and nation. These veterans have been leaders in a variety of areas, such as arts, education, public service, volunteer activities, and community and business leadership to name a few. Most importantly, they all have made significant impacts on the lives of others and their communities. To be eligible for the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame the nominee must have served their country honorably in a branch of military service and continued to serve their communities, state and nation after discharge. Because so many of America’s veterans continue to give to their communities, state and nation after honorable military service, the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame seeks to recognize them for their countless contributions to society. The Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame is administered and sponsored by the Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the Connecticut Military Department on behalf of the Office of the Governor. The first class of the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame was inducted in November 2005 and includes the 41st President of the United States, George Herbert Walker Bush. To date, fifty-one distinguished veterans of Connecticut are honored in the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame.

MEMBERS OF THE CONNECTICUT VETERANS HALL OF FAME (in alphabetical order)

CLASS OF 2005

Nathan George Agostinelli (Manchester)

His military service includes two years as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He served six years in the U.S. Army Reserve and 23-years in the Connecticut National Guard advancing through the ranks from First Lieutenant to Brigadier General. He was elected Mayor of the Town of Manchester and then State Comptroller, becoming the first Manchester resident elected to statewide office. He has been an Executive Vice President of New England Bank, Trustee of Eastern Connecticut Health Network, Member of the State Banking Commission,

and Member of the Connecticut Commission on Hospitals and Health Care; He was very instrumental in establishing the WWII Museum during the 50th Anniversary Celebration and Co-Chaired Manchester’s Town Commemoration Committee. Currently, Mr. Agostinelli is a director of the Selective Service System for the State of Connecticut, appointed to that position by President Clinton.

CLASS OF 2009 Richard O. Belden

(posthumous award; formerly of Shelton)

Dick Belden served in the U.S. Air Force from 1955 through 1961. Known as “The Dean of the House,” Representative Belden served in the Connecticut General Assembly continuously from 1974 until his death in office in 2007. He held many key leadership positions in the Legislature including Assistant House Republican Leader, Deputy Speaker of the House, Ranking Member of the Finance Committee and Member of the state Bond Commission. He was Direc

of the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the ConnInstitute of Municipal Studies and held many other significant statewide posts. Mr. Belden had a 38-year management career at Sikorsky Aircraft. He was a trustee of St. Margaret Mary Church in Shelton and a volunteer at Griffin Hospital Parent Child Resource Center, Lower Naugatuck Valley Boys and Girls Club, Hewitt Memorial Hospital, Valley Substance Abuse Council, Emmett O’Brien Regional Vocational-Technical School and the American Legion Sut

tor ecticut

ter-Terlizzi Post #16.

CLASS OF 2006 Douglas A. Bora (Norwalk)

Mr. Bora is a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and recipient of the Silver Star who continued his service with the Connecticut National Guard after the War. For many decades, he has been a tireless civic volunteer and leader through service as president of the Norwalk Chamber of Commerce, chairman of the Norwalk Bicentennial Commission responsible for coordinating 52 events, a Little League volunteer for 25 years and cofounder of the Norwalk Community Theater.

CLASS OF 2005

President George Herbert Walker Bush (Greenwich)

He served as a Naval Aviator during World War II and flew 58 combat missions. He was the youngest pilot in the Navy when he received his wings. He was elected to Congress in 1967 from the State of Texas and continued to serve his country as Ambassador to the United Nations and Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. In 1980, he was elected Vice-President under Ronald Reagan and was elected the 41st President of the United States in 1988.

CLASS OF 2005

William Thomas Coffey, Sr. (Plainville)

Colonel Coffey has an outstanding 43-year military career in the Connecticut National Guard. His unit was mobilized for the Korean Conflict and he volunteered for duty in Vietnam. After his military service, he continued serving his comrades and fellow veterans. For the past 8 years, he has been active with the Connecticut Committee for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves and currently serves as Vice-Chairman of that group. He is active in the important Pre and Post Mobilization Process for members of the Connecticut National Guard and Reserve units being mobilized for duty in Southwest Asia. In collaboration with this son,

Major William Coffey Jr. has published two anthologies of American Patriotism. He has been an avid collector of the stories and “uncommon words from common patriots” that comprise the volumes of “Patriots Heart” and “More Patriots Heart” which are rich with text that reflect and celebrate the American spirit, honor, integrity and wisdom.

CLASS OF 2005 Dr. Randall Howard Collins (Waterford)

Dr. Collins served in the United States Army Military Intelligence Division during the Vietnam War. He received several medals and commendations during his tour of duty in that conflict. Returning to civilian life, he sought a career in education and in 1987 received his doctorate from Boston University. A Superintendent of Schools in three different communities the majority of which has been in Waterford. He pioneered the “Learning Through Service Program," making Waterford the first public school in America to require community service hours as a requirement for graduation, promoting good citizenship. He has received the Connecticut Superintendent of the Year Award. One of his

most important contributions to the veteran community was his leadership in urging the Board of Education to award high school diplomas to WWII veterans whose education was interrupted because of the war. This was adopted throughout Connecticut. He also was effective in persuading the Board to adopt a policy of offering maximum financial support to all employees in the Reserves that are called to Active Duty and encouraged other school districts to do the same. As a member of the Military/Superintendents Liaison Commission, he examines various needs of the military community living in Southeast Connecticut. He continues to be a strong advocate for veterans and military personnel.

CLASS OF 2007 Michael J. Daly (Fairfield)

United States Army WORLD WAR II SERVICE Congressional Medal of Honor for heroism on April 18, 1945, Nuremberg, Germany. • Three Silver Stars for Gallantry in Action • Bronze Star and two awards of the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received in action • Battlefield Commission in France, from Private First Class to Second Lieutenant, December 1944 •Legion of Valor Life Member • Man of the Year, Town of Fairfield, 1946 • U.S. Military Academy at West Point lecturer, whose military record is used as an outstanding example of the duties of an Army Infantry Officer in time of war • Life Member Kiwanis Club • Board of Directors, St. Vincent’s Hospital 1980– 2000 • Member of Connecticut Judicial Review Council, ten

years service • Founder and CEO of the Daly Foundation • Over 30 years service to children with handicaps and their hospitals • Over 50 years of service to the Town of Fairfield.

CLASS OF 2008 Dr. Evans H. Daniels, Jr., MD,

posthumous award (formerly of Wethersfield)

Dr. Daniels, formerly of Wethersfield, was drafted as a U.S. Army medic out of medical school for World War II and went on to receive two Bronze Stars. Following the war, he completed medical school and returned to Hartford to establish a family medical practice and the first medical clinic in the state dedicated to serving the poor, now known as Community Health Services. Dr. Daniels also served as the physician for the State Veterans Home in Rocky Hill and performed extensive medical missionary work in Guyana, China, Africa, Honduras and Santo Domingo focusing on bringing modern medical services to the poor.

John “Jack” Joseph Dougherty (Branford)

and

r

enior

e Marine Corps League Distinguished Bronze Service Medal and the Distinguished Silver Citzen Medal.

CLASS OF 2009

John “Jack” Dougherty enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1966. In Vietnam, he served as an infantryman and squad leader with the 3/4 Marine Division participated in Operation Robin South Hill 685 (Phou Noui), where he was wounded and awarded the Purple Heart Medal. A volunteer since 1982 with theBoy Scouts of America, he is also an active member of the Disabled American Veterans and the Military Order of the Devil Dogs. He serves as finance officeof the Military Order of the Purple Heart and has been a devoted member and officer of the Marine Corps League, serving as Detachment Adjutant and SVice Commander. The Marine Corps League named him the Connecticut Detachment “Marine of the Year 2008.” Mr. Dougherty has also received the

New England Division Roland G. Knapp Award in 2008, th

CLASS OF 2005

(Wethersfield) (Posthumously)

r of t.

er

’s the

Wethersfield. hea

tadium,Yankee Stadium or Fenway Park. [Accepting w s Ms. Ey, Widow]

CLASS OF 2007

ar • tal

s’

Campus • Department of Connecticut Italian merican War Veteran Man of the Year 1973 • Over 60,500 hours and over 45 years of volunteer service

was Barry Faticoni, Nephew]

CLASS OF 2008

oast

or many years as a community physician, donati for over 40 years was an active volun

Bruce Hults Ey

Mr. Ey attained the rank of Technical Sergeant in the United States Army Air Force during World War II. Although stricken with polio as a young man he enthusiastically sought to serve in the military. During his time in service he was a Radio Gunner on a B-17, did combat tours in Korea and Vietnam, was a PrisoneWar and received numerous medals and commendations including the Purple HearHe served as the Commanding Officer for the Military Intelligence and Security

Unit FRF Germany. He retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He continued to serve his formcomrades after being appointed Director of Veteran’s Home Life at the State Veterans Home and Hospitalin 1973. In his desire to help his fellow veterans he spearheaded efforts to engage community support to improve the quality of life for the veterans at Rocky Hill. He was responsible for establishing the HomeOutreach Program and instituting many recreational activities that enriched the lives of the veterans at Home then and for years to come. He shared his love of sports by coaching Little League in He also ensured that veterans were honored twice a year by Major League Baseball at SS

a

Alfred J. Faticoni (Newington) (Posthumously)

United States Navy and United States Army 1947—1950 Enlisted one year in US Navy and then enlisted in the US Army for two years • 2006 George H. Seal Award: National DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Volunteer of the YeCofounder of DAV hospital transportation program for Newington VA Hospi•2002 Connecticut Federal Executive Association Award for Outstanding Federal Volunteer •Disabled American Veterans Department of Connecticut Volunteer of the Year Award 1993 • Recognized for Outstanding Support of theVA CT Healthcare System 1994-95 and Recipient of the VA Center Director

“Badge of Pride” Award • City of New Britain Distinguished Service Award 1977 • Chairman and Fund raiser for Commemorative Wall Project, Newington VA A

to veterans. [Accepting

Dr. Valentine D. Galasyn, PhD, MD, of Canterbury

Dr. Galasyn, of Canterbury, served for 25 years in the U.S. Navy with wartime service during World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Earning a doctorate in chemistry and his MD later in life, he served as a Naval physician off the cof Vietnam and as director of the Naval Undersea Medical Institute in Groton. With four other Navy physicians, Dr. Galasyn voluntarily established and manned the first emergency department at Windham Hospital. Following his retirement from the military, he served the community f

ng many in-kind services andteer with the 4H.

CLASS OF 2009

of for

AMVETS, Catholic War Veterans Post #708, American Legion

ost #17, Italian-American War Veterans Post #8 and Veterans of the Vietnam War. A long-time member odge #967, he was named Volunteer of the Year 1998-99 and is a member of the mmission. He also is a member of the Knights of Columbus Ojeda Council #33 atholic C

o Iwo Iwo

f

Assembly Citation for establishing National Iwo Jima Monument in New Britain, CT • State of Hawaii House of Representatives recognition for assistance with the Pacific War

Memorial • Letter of Commendation from General M. W. Hagee, Commandant of the US Marine Corps [Accepting was Mrs. Winn Gentile, Widow]

Robert L. Genovese of Naugatuck

Robert Genovese served in Vietnam in the U.S. Air Force. He is co-founderthe “Veterans Who Care Committee,” which for over 20 years raised funds children of Vietnam veterans born with birth defects due to the effects of exposure to Agent Orange. The organization also offered emergency financial assistance to veterans in need while awaiting permanent benefits. He is past commander of VFW Post #1946; past commander, Union City Chapter #11 Disabled American Veterans; and organizer of POW/MIA remembrance vigils in Naugatuck. He was Honorary Grand Marshall of the 2008 Connecticut

Veterans Day Parade. As a consultant on the Connecticut production of the movie “Jackknife” starring Robert DeNiro and Ed Harris, Mr. Genovese was instrumental in assuring that returning Vietnam veterans were protrayed accurately. A former accredited veterans service officer/counselor with the Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs, he also serves on the Board of Directors of the Vietnam Veterans AgentOrange Victims, Inc., and is a member of Pof the Naugatuck Elks LElks National Service Coand St. Hedwig Roman C

hurch.

CLASS OF 2007

Dr. George G. Gentile (Newington) (Posthumously)

WORLD WAR II SERVICE 2nd Lieutenant, US Marine Corps, Battle for IwJima Founder and President of The Iwo Jima Survivors Association. FormedJima Memorial Survivor’s Association, Inc. • Author of book History of the Jima Survivors Association, Inc. and the National Iwo Jima Monument •Doctor oDental Surgery, Treasurer CT State Dental Society. Member of Fellow-Pierre Fauchard Academy of Dentistry. NE Regional Board of Examiners. Fones

. • President and Charter Humanitarian Award, CT State Dental AssociationMember of New Britain Ci itan Club •CT General v

CLASS OF 2009 Dr. Harvey J. Grinsell, Jr., MD,

of Putnam/Woodstock

Prior to completing high school in 1945, Dr. Harvey Ginsell enlisted in the Navduring World War II as a pharmacist’s mate. He was called back into the Navas a lieutenant upon completion of his medical degree from Tufts Medical School in 1954. He served as a medical officer for the Arctic Fleet through 1956. He co-developed an antidote for hydrocarbon (lead) poisoning and conducted research on methods to diagnose spinal meningitis. He was founderand director of the Day Kimball Pediatric Center, the first known hospital-based

program of its kind in the nation. He served as medical director of the John Dempsey Regional Center, where he co-developed one the state’s first early intervention programs for infants with developmental

isabilities. He establi

y y

shed in-school medical exams, immunizations and screening for children in rural stern Connecticut towns. He brought the federal Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Program to rural

v aternal and childhoon nutrition. The Quinnebaug Valley Association for d Dr. Grinsell “Man of the Year” and the Danielso or Chamber of Commerce

their “Distinguished Service Award.” Dr. Grinsell was honored by the Town of Plainfield for ball Pediatric C

of the Vietnam War and has been an over 25 years, serving as the

&T Veterans, a veterans support group that has raised funding and awareness for veterans needs across the state and nation. He is an active member of several veterans’ advisory service organizations.

r. Johnson is a U.S. Army veteran of World War II who served a 38-year coach at Naugatuck High School and

has led the Naugatuck Veterans Council as chairman for two decades, developing Naugatuck’s ex arade into one of the largest

deaeastern Connecticut to improRetarded Citizens namegave himestablishing the Plainfield Day Kim

e mn Juni

enter at Plainfield Town Hall.

CLASS of 2006

Robert A. Janicki (Guilford) Mr. Janicki is a U.S. Marine veteran active advocate for veterans for founder/chairperson of the SNET/AT

CLASS OF 2006

Franklin E. Johnson, Sr., (Naugatuck)

Mcareer as an educator, counselor and

tensive Memorial Day pew England. patriotic parades in N

CLASS OF 2006 William J. Johnston (Colchester) (Posthumously)

with the U.S. Army in World War II and

Congressional Medal of Honor in February 1944 while th Infantry Division in Italy. He continued his service to

fellow veterans through a long career with the U.S. Veterans Administration and through service on the Colchester Board of Selectmen, the Connecticut

nt of Veterans Affairs Bof the Veterans p

r. Kerrigan is a U.S. Marine veteran of the Korean War and was awarded

three Purple Hearts for wounds receiv y action. He has been extensively involved in veter and national levels including leadership posiMilitary Ord and is a published author of several books on m itary history and medals.

tion

PhoGeorge A. Fuller Co. and Hor Hart ain organizers of the Connecticut Armed Forces Day Parades from 1970 to 1984. General King also served as President Emeritus of the Board of Trustees of St. J tablished the 100 Club of Connecticut, dedicated to the financial support of spouses and children of first responders killed in the line of duty. He wConnecticut Society of ProfesConnecticut Department of PuAssociation.

Mr. Johnston, of Colchester, servedwas awarded the serving with the 45

ecommander o [Acce

Departm ard of Commissioners and as state of Foreign Wars.

ting is his daughter Mrs. Dorothy O’Meara]

CLASS OF 2006 Evans Edward Kerrigan (Rocky Hill)

Med during enem

ans’ advocacy at the statetions with the

er of the Purple Heart and the E-2-5 Korea Associationil

CLASS OF 2009 Brig Gen. John J. King

(posthumous award;formerly of Hartford)

Brig. Gen. John King began his career in the U.S. Army as a captain in the infantry from 1942 to 1946. He saw combat in Italy, where he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in action October 1944 at Camp diVenino, Italy. A recipient of the Silver Star, the Purple Heart and the Italian Military Valor Cross, he rose to Assistant Division Commander with the 76th Division, U.S. Army Reserves. General King became a civil engineer with management responsibility for the construction and renovaof several landmark buildings, including St. Joseph’s Cathedral and the

enix Insurance “Boat” Building. He was Corporate Vice President of the n Construction, Inc., of

ford. He was one of the m

oseph’s College. A co-founder and past president, he es

as a corporator of St. Francis Hospital and a member of the National and sional Engineers and Land Surveyors. He served as a member of the blic Works Advisory Council and of the Retired Military Officers

CLASS OF 2007 Elwood A.D. “Woody” Lechausse (Enfield)

VIETNAM WAR, Sergeant, US Army, Airborne • Life Member of eight veterans organizations, 35 years of veterans advocacy • Travelers Life Insurance Co. (retired) • CT Department of Veterans’ Affairs Board of Trustees • Charter member, CT War Veterans Memorial Register of Remembrance Commission • Member, Nomination Review Board for Military

cademies for US Senate and US House of Representatives • S

ecretary and Treasurer of Connecticut • Vietnam Veterans of Americ ember, Community

ittee for VA CT • Co-Chair Mental Heal oard for VA CT • T Veterans C iation,

CT Ya tional ittee, Disabled American Veterans • Department of Connecticut Commander, Adjutant and

•

receive the Congressional Medal of Honor for his in saving his aircraft and cr in February

1969. After his discharge, Mr. L advocate for Air Force enlisted men and vete service

mbers. He worked on behalf of veterans for many years in key positions n ration l er at

of

y

y

r of necticut Board of Football Officials, he served for 15 years as a

Head Linesman. He was cited by Citizen’s Bank and Farmoutstanding contributions to the banking community. A m stees of Middlesex Community College for 10 years, he establish program for needy students. Included among his many philanthropic activities is his work with the Middlesex County Foundation, assistance to trosecured funds that enabled thLibrary.

AVeterans’ a Chapter 120 • Charter M

B Coalition Forum

Advisory CommChairman, Manchester, CInc, Veterans’ Service Officer •Executive CommLegislative Chair, DAV Administration, CT State

th Community Advisoryss Veterans • 82nd Airboouncil on Homele rne Division Assoc

nkee All-Airborne Chapter (CYAAC) Board of Directors • Na

Frequent testifier on veterans’ issues before US Senate, US Department of Veterans’Legislature • Author of many publications on veterans and disabled veterans issues.

CLASS OF 2008 John L. Levitow,

posthumous award (formerly of Glastonbury)

Mr. Levitow, formerly of Glastonbury, was the first and lowest ranking member of the U.S. Air Force ever toheroism

meincluding service as a VA Coat the Newington VA Medicathe Connecticut Department

ew over Long Binh, Vietnamevitow became a tireless

rans, traveling around the world to speak with

gressional liaision, benefits counselor, and chief of medical administ Center and as the director of planning and assistant to the commission Veterans’ Affairs.

CLASS OF 2005 Joseph G. Lombardo (Middlefield)

Mr. Lombardo served as a 2nd Lieutenant during World War II as a Navigator in the Army Air Force. He was elected to the Connecticut General Assembly in 1956 and served on the House Veterans and MilitarAffairs Committee. He strongly advocated for veterans and organized the Middlefield American Legion Post #92 and was its first Commander. He isa life member of the American Legion and VFW. His life of philanthropand community leadership touched countless individuals. As a membethe Con

er’s Mechanics Bank for 20 years of ember of the Board of Tru

ed an endowment fund to finance the tuition

ubled children at the Cromwell Children’s Home where he organized and em to build a new education building and as Treasurer of the Levi Coe

ronze While

firm, he began a long public service career culiminating as a mem se of Representatives from th cally, Mr. Luppi served as se d as a member of the Finance Board. He is the co-founder of the Connecticut Veterans of tP

ns advocacy • Representative of the Soldiers’ Sailors’ and Marines’ Fund of Connecticut Submarine Group II recognition Award • Spe recipient, Special Olympics “M fficer for local American Leg Westbrook Elks Club, author of Veterans’ colu n. • Volunteer with West Haven

the

issions throughout the United S esidential Volunteer Service Aw e has also received national

recognition from the National Association of Congregational Christian ChuRches for his work with youth.

ia.

CLASS OF 2008 Howard L. Luppi of North Haven

Mr. Luppi, of North Haven, served in World War II and received a BStar and Purple Heart for his service during the Battle of the Bulge. establishing and growing his own CPA

ber of the Connecticut Hou District from 1980 to 199 the 88 0. Lo

cond selectman, assistant town treasurer an

he Battle of the Bulge and served as vice commander of American Legion ost #76, coordinating many veterans recognition and educational programs.

CLASS OF 2007 Anthony Mammola (Westbrook)

WORLD WAR II Service US Navy, Chief Naval Aviation Pilot • Purple Heart for wounds received after being shot down over Luzon, Philippines •Lt. Commander, US Naval Reserve • Design Engineer at Electric Boat,Groton • 42 years of local vetera

cial Olympics volunteer andor” • Veterans’ benefits servedal of Hon ice o

ion, VFW, and Elks • “Veteran’s Veteran” ofm

Veterans Hospital, American Legion, VFW and Disabled American Veterans. • Chairman of Old Saybrook Memorial Day Parade since 1969.

CLASS OF 2009

Rev. William D. McGee of Winsted

The Rev. William McGee served as a corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps in First Marine Air Wing in Vietnam. He was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (2 awards) and the Meritorious Unit Citation Vietnam Cross of Gallantry. Ordained with the Southern Baptist Convention and Fellowship of ConnecticutCongregational Christian Churches, he has a 30-year career in the ministry, founding and ser ations and m

ving many churches, organizs. Rev. McGee was awarded ttate he Pr

ard for over 5,000 hours of volunteer service. H

He is a former prison chaplain and currently serves as the chaplain of VFW Post #296 and as a volunteer chaplain for the Connecticut Chapter for the Missing in America Project. Rev. McGee founded and is pastoral leader for Men Walking With God International Ministries. He serves as a member of the Boardsof Directors for Asian Faith Mission and for Agape Childrens’ Home, both located in Kerala, Ind

CLASS OF 2009 Brig. Gen. Daniel J. McHale of Avon

Brig. Gen. Daniel McHale began his military career as an enlisted Army divein Vietnam. Retiring with over 35 years of military service, he rose to the rank of Brigadier General, Infantry, Connecticut Army National Guard. General McHale was Commander of the Connecticut National Guard’s Quick Reaction Force following the events of September 11, 2001, and coordinator of the state’s Katrina Relief Operatio

r

ns in 2005 and 2006. He is the recipient of the Legion of Merit, Vietnam Service Medal and currently serves as the Connecticut Department of Defense

cacy and benefits assistance to a d active duty es. He is Co-Chairm ordination

I Joint Terrorism Task Force. He is a facilitator for the Yellow r

n t o rt E

VIETNAM WAR SERVICE US Arm an • Purple Heart, Vietnam • Past State Comm erican Veterans, State Vice Commander for CT Military Order of the Purple Heart, Post Commander of VFW and AmerGuard and Drill Team ing more than $65,000 in gift certificates presented toWalter Reed and Bethesda Hospitals. E s for Family Assistance Program and Fisher House for families of wounded •

Chairman “Operation Dust-Off ” providing day trips to hospitalized veterans • Owner of AL Meadows Graphic Design, LLC which provides pro bono design for veterans’ organizations • “Volunteer of the Year” CT DAV • Local volunteer Cub Scouts, Special Olympics, YMCA, Fairfield County Firefighters.

Transitional Assistance Advisor, ll generations of veterans anproviding outreach, advo

personnel and their familiCommittee and a contributor to the FBRibbon Reintegration Progguardian for the “AmericaWashington, D.C., to viewChapter of the Associationof the Guard and Reserve (senior manager of the U.S.

an of the Connecticut OEF/OIF Support Co

am for returning Reserve and National Guard units. He volunteers as a Warror” Honor Flight Program, which takes World War II veterans to he national WWII Memorial. The 1st Vice President of the Connecticut f the U.S. Army, General McHale also volunteers with the Employer SuppoSGR) and “Give2the Troops” overseas care package program. He is a retired

Postal Service and former Postmaster of Simsbury, Connecticut.

CLASS OF 2007

Alfred A. Meadows (Huntington)

y, 1965-1968 Combat Infantrymander for Disabled Am

ican Legion units • VFW State Honor • Founder of “Operation Gift Card” , rais

wounded troops on personal visits to xpanded program to collect item

CLASS OF 2008 Barbara E. Miller,

s. Miller, of G nurse with service during the Vietnam War, retiring at the rank of Commander. An

ul

evo r t0 merica

A

ds

e Vietnam War Era Histo political Study Program. He h t the Connecticut Department o aged veterans’ awareness at SCSU by sponsoring the Smithsonian Vietnam War Photo

sds

REAN WAR ERA Colonel, US Army Reserve, retired • Public schools educator, counselor, administrator, 41 years • Adjunct Faculty, US Army Command and General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth, KS ommittee, Reserve Officers Association • N“exceptional co andbook. CT Medical Reserve Corps Planning

Reserve Corps. • Captainnewsletter • National CouReserve • President Phi D anada • Masonic 32nd Level, SMember, AMVETS • Po Member, American Psychological Association • Member, P

RN, of Gales Ferry

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edvoDCrve#4

and director of the Retired

ales Ferry, had a 20-year active duty career as a Navy

cator for over 26 years, she has provided medical instruction, training and unteer services for multiple organizations including the Department of elopmental Disabilities, Connecticut League for Nursing, the American Red ss, the American Heart Association and the American Cancer Society. He

erans advocacy work has included service as president of the WAVES Unit , president of the state chapter of the Military Officers Assocation of Activities Office, Submarine Base New London.

CLASS OF 2005 Giacomo “Jack” Mordente II (Branford)

Mr. Mordente served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era and was on active duty for three years. Upon discharge, he joined the Army Reserve to continue serving his country. For the past 30 years, Jack has served the neeof veterans as Director of Veterans Affairs at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven. As an Adjunct Faculty member, he initiated th

rical, Cultural, Social and Geored PTSD In-Service Traininas sponso g a

f Corrections. He has energetically encour

Exhibit and Connecticut Vietnam Veterans Art Shows. He is a dauntless advocate for veterans and has spoken and lectured about America and the Vietnam Experience, women veterans, minority veterans and Gulf War

a member of the New Haven Vietnam Veterans Memorial Committee, Connecticut ucation Advisory Committee and Chair of the Connecticut Herbicides Information

an active member of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. He has also advocated for veterans on the national level on such issues as healthcare, education and employment.

CLASS OF 2007 Robert J. Nearine (Glastonbury)

KO

veterans. He was iBoard of Higher ECommission. He i

• National Publications Cational Defense Education Forum Chairman. Commended for ntributions” to program for National Security Seminar planning h

Committee • Volunteer with CREPC Medical , First Company, Governor’s Foot Guard. Coordinator, Battalion Review, quarterly ncilman, Reserve Officers Association. • Employer Support of the Guard and elta Kappa, UConn Chapter and Area coordinator, New England and Eastern C

hrine, Knight Templar, Royal Order of Jesters, Sphinx Temple, Newington • Life st Commander, American Legion Post 1771 •i Lambda Theta (International Honor Society and Professional Association in

Education) • Past President, Hartford Civitan Club.

CLASS OF 2007

Robert B. Nett (New Haven and Columbus, GA)

WORLD WAR II, KOREAN WAR, AND VIETNAM WAR Service Congressional Medal of HonorLeyte, Philippine School, Ft. Benning, known as33 years military servicein 1973 • Honorary

, for remarkable courage in combat near Cognon, Islands, Dec. 14, 1944. • ommanded Officer Candidate

, retirin

Army e public school educator • “Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award”

y d A

w d

B

H. Richard Newell, Jr., of Hartford

Mr. Newell, of Hartfo rine Corps in Vietnam w Purple Heart. He serves as the Disabled American Veterans’ (DAV) hospital service cptrm

the c

posthumous award

overnor O’Neill, formerly of East Hampton, served as a U.S. Air Force B-29 gunner flying twelve night combat missions oKorean War. The 84th Governor of Connecticut and longest serving in over 200 years, Governor O’Neill is for education, re-building the state’resources and programs for mana new state veteran’s cemetery i rnor, Mr. O’Neill had extensive publiFinance Board, as a member of e of Representatives rising to the position of majority leader and as Lt. Governor.

C“The Father of the Officer Candidate School.” •g as Colonel

“Colonel of the Regiment” 102nd Infantry, CTNational Guard • Long-timColumbus, GA Schools s“The 2007 Spirit of Hopeclaims through his work and provided series of lea [Accepting was

stem • Featured in Tom Brokaw’s book, The Greatest Generation • Receiveward” USO’s highest honor. • Advocate for veterans’ services and benefit

ith the VA VFW, American Legion and Vietnam Veterans’ groups • Developedership seminars to OCS candidates. G Retired Daniel J. McHale, former 102d Infantry Commander]

CLASS OF 2008

rd, was a lance corporal in the U.S. Ma

ith service during the Tet Offensive and is a recipient of the

oordinator at the Newington VA Medical Center where he coordinates and rovides multiple services to disabled veterans, including the DAV ansportation program. As a DAV volunteer driver, he has driven 101,299 iles in 6,448 hours to transport 2,835 veterans for medical care. A former

epartment of Veterans’ Affairs, he has served as state commander of both an War Veterans and district commander of the VFW.

CLASS OF 2008 Governor William A. O’Neill,

(formerly of East Hampton)

trustee of the Connecticut DDAV and the Italian-Ameri

Gver North Korea during the

credited with increasing state funding s infrastructure and providing additional y less fortunate citizens. He also established n Middletown. Prior to becoming Govec service as a member of the East Hampton the Connecticut Hous

CLASS OF 2006 Peter Robert Pardo (Madison)

Mr. Pardo served with the U.S. Army during World War II as a n U fter cew

Roger G. Paulmeno of Old Greenwich

Mr. Paulmeno, of Old Green or-gunner during the Vietnam Wa dling a

rning grenade e was cited for valor and is a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross. For

drti in memorial

e

he United States Navy during World War II. In spite of being in a segregated camp at Great Lakes, his work and research helped to bring about integration in the United States Navy in 1945. The other m rate until 1948. Dr. Peters, a reclini missioner for the Connecticut Department of Education. His assistance to

rk h s ,qd WII: An i

oncommissioned officer and then earned an officer commission with the.S. Air Force where he served on active duty for another 26 years. A

ompleting law school later in life, he has served as an lected official in Madison for over 24 years and volunteered extensively ith local civic organizations.

CLASS OF 2008

wich, was a helicopter dowas seriously wounded whr where he ile han

inside his aircraft in order to save his crew. Hbu

thereatheVeindev

last 23 years he has devoted his career to helping veterans as a VA justment counseling apist and is currently Team Leader/Chief for the White Plains, NY s Center. For many years he has volunteered locally assisting vidual veterans with benefits information, participatingnts, and instructing students about the Vietnam War.

CLASS OF 2005 Lt. James Sedalia Peters II (Storrs)

Dr. Peters served in t

ilitary services did not integinistrator, professor and licentired adm sed

cal/counseling psychologist, served as Associate Com

ing for the U.S Veterans Administration. Throughout his life, he has beenysically, mentally disadvantaged and handicapped individuals. He ha including 25 books on a range of topics and interest areas. His works uences of Being a Black American”: a sourcebook of research by Black Career Development”; “The Saga of Black Navy Veterans of W

veterans includes 10 years woa champion for the rights of pwritten numerous publicationsinclude: “Psychological ConsePsychologists; “Leadership anAmerican Triumph”; and “Soc

al Justice for the Disabled.

CLASS OF 2007 Tony Paul Pia (Stamford) (Posthumously)

WORLD WAR II, KOREAN WAR, AND VIETNAM WAR SERVICE Sergeant First Class, United States Army • Intelligence sergeant, drill instructor, NATO interpreter and recruiting sergeant • Assistant Director of the Human Rights Comm • Board of Directors, Stamford M a” weekly radi years • General Chairman of Stamford Veteran’s Memorial and Park Committee.

o of a r ar ps te

eer spanned three decades with service in the U.S. Navy during World War II and with the Naval Reserves during the Korea and Vietnam War eras. He is a recipient of the Presidential Unit Citation, WWII Victory Medal and European Theater Ribbon with two stars. His volunteer service as a highly-involved local veteran includes 20 years as Chairman of the Enfield Veterans Council and service as a lifetime member. He organized and raised funds for Enfield’s Memorial Day and Veterans Day parades for over 50 years. He is Chairman

of the Enfield World War II Monument Committee, Treasurer and Co-Chairman of the National Purple Heart Museum and spearheaded the dedication of a new monument honoring all fallen Enfield citizens

om WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam. He is a 20-year service of icer and Chairman of multiple ommittees at his VFW Post #1501. In 1996, he received the Enfield Town Council “Patriot Award” and 006 they named him a “Citizen of the Year.” Mr. Plamondon is a retired police officer for the towns of

Suffield and Enfield, a former deputy sheriff for Hartford County and a state marshal.

ission of City of Stamford, CTit Union •Host of “Old Sarge unicipal Cred Tony Pi

o program on WSTC-AM • Veterans Advocate, 40

Worked tirelessly to reconstruct Veterans Memorial Park in Stamford • Hostntest for High School students. This work was honored by the establishment ge Tony Pia Scholarship” awarded to a Stamford High School student • Stamfordd for Outstanding Community Service • “Man of the Year” by American-Italian

of the Year” by Jewish War Veterans of Stamford • Honored by the Marine Corrans.

[Accepting was Barbara Pia-Malizia, Daughter]

CLASS OF 2009 Theodore J. Plamondon, Jr. of Enfield

Theodore “Ted” Plamondon’s 21-year enlisted military car

of “Voice of Democracy” c$5000 annual “The “Old SaJaycee’s Distinguished AwAssociation 1978 • “Citizenand Army for work with ve

fr fc2

CLASS OF 2005

Lt. Ernest Virgil Plantz (Gales Ferry)

Mr. Plantz served with the United States Navy in World War II and attained the rank nant. In 1942 he survived th e, the USS Perch, by

Japanese forces and becam45. He ze

e ph r of War to serve his community and fellow veterans. Although he is a disabled veteran his

nd e t

io

e

. Frederick G. Reincke, posthumous award (formerly of Wethersfield and Rocky Hill)

Lt. Gen. Reincke, f erved for 47 years in uniform sailor and as an Army/Connecticut National Guard officer. He is the longest-serving

of

ies

Robert R. Rit of Stamford

the

Zion Lutheran Church and . He has coordinated voluntCenter, Special Olympics

of Lieute

later in 19Star. He overcam

untiring ein Ledyar

enrich the lives of others was raward for humanitarian serviceSoutheastern Connecticut Regpatriotic and fraternal organizatihistory of World War II and th

e sinking of his submarinr of war. He was liberatee a prisone d more than 3 years

was awarded several medals included the Purple Heart and Bronysical and emotional damages he suffered as a Prisone

ergy and commitment to others is impressive. He is active in civic affairs , especially the Lions Club where he served as President. His effort tocognized by his honor as the Melvin Jones Fellow, which is the highesbestowed by Lions International. He also served as a member of the nal Planning Agency, as Deacon in his church and is a member of many ons. He has also spent many hours teaching school children about the sacrifices made by our veterans.

CLASS OF 2008 Lt. Gen

rly of Wethersfield and Rocky Hill, sorme

in two World Wars as both a Navy

Adjutant General of the State Military Department, serving under six governors from 1948 to 1963. While Adjutant General and following hisretirement from the military, General Reincke also served as wardenthe Connecticut State Prison, responsible for restoring order after a serof riots and initiating several rehabilitative programs. His extensive public service also includes serving as Hartford County High Sheriff and as a member of the Wethersfield Board of Selectmen and Police Commission.

CLASS OF 2008 z

Mr. Ritz, of Stamford, was an enlisted Army combat engineer in Vietnam withservice during the Tet Offensive. For over 35 years, he has volunteered at West Haven VA Medical Center visiting patients weekly and organizing supportive events. A 38-year member of the Elks, he has served as exalted ruler, trustee and veterans affairs chairman for Lodge #899 in Stamford. Mr. Ritz is also an elder, youth ministry chairman and Sunday school teacher at is a life member of the VFW with active service on the drill team/honor guardeer fundraising for the West Haven VA, Connecticut Children’s Medical and New York City homeless missions.

CLASS OF 2009 Alphonse N. Sabetta of Shelton

Alphonse Sabetta served as a U.S. Army staff sergeant during the Korean War, where he was awarded the Korean Service Medal with Two Bronze Stars anthe United Nations

d Service Medal. He is past Commander and the current

Adjutant of the Sutter-Terlizi American Legion Post #16. In 2008 he was inducted in the Connecticut American Legion Hall of Fame. Mr. Sabetta is the organizer of many annual activities for youth to raise awareness of veterans’ contributions and community service incl

ericanism programs in th ugatuck Valley Veterans Korean W rom 2000 to

2003. He is a member of the local selection committee for Boys and Girsl State e

nizer, e

n nce d

CLASS OF 2006

Anthony Vito Savino (Bristol)

Mr. Savino served on active duty with the U.S. Army and Connecticut Army National Guard for 40 years, serving as the state command sergeant major of the Connecticut National Guard for his last 16 years. During his military service and since his retirement, he has volunteered tirelessly in his community on numerous boards, commissions, and veterans committees, including service on the Bristol City Council.

uding oratorical contests, fundraisers e schools. He chaired the Naand Am

Area

and sShelton. He also is a member of coach and official for youth athlBasketball League, Little LeagueFootball Officials, and Valley asupervisor for the Shelton Boar

ar 50th Anniversary Commemoration f

rves as Chairman of the War Memorial Scholarship Committee of the VFW and Korean War Veterans Associations. A long-time orgatics, his devotion to young people includes service with the Bob Cousy , New Haven Board #10 Basketball Officials, Western Connecticut d New Haven Umpires Association. Mr. Sabetta is a retired maintena of Education at Shelton High School.

CLASS OF 2007 Darrell D. Stark (Stafford)

WORLD WAR II SERVICE, PRISONER OF WAR, JAPAN Corporal, US Army • Taken Prisoner of War Yokkaichi, Japan 1942-1945 • Purple Heart Medal for wounds received in Bataan 1942 • Philippine Liberation Medal, Bronze Star for Meritorious Achievement in ground combat World War II •20-year public service career as corrections officer/warden, Department of Corrections •Developed InmDepartment of Corrections • former inmates, assisting with rei nal Prisoner of War Museum, Americus,GA • Advisor to medical personnel at Veterans’ e

enf t.

rv te officer

, and Elks • “Veteran’s Veteran” of Westbrook Elks Club, author of Veterans’ column. Volunteer with West Haven Veterans Hospital, American Legion, VFW and Disabled

an of Old Saybrook Memorial Day Parade since 1969.

rer. He

au as

ro luding r

Served as a ring the Vietnam War. He wa c actions in saving the lives of two of his wounded comrades during a firefight in Vietnam

the Southington Water

of s.

ate Transportation Program for Connecticut Volunteer counselor/mentor to

ntegration • “Teacher in Residence” at Natio

Administration on behalf of vvolunteer, including as frequAviation Pilot • Purple Heart Commander, US Naval Reseadvocacy • Representative ofII recognition Award •Recipifor local American Legion, VFW

teran and ex-prisoners of war for 20 years. • Stafford area Community t historical lecturer to school children. Service US Navy, Chief Naval

or wounds received after being shot down over Luzon, Philippines • Le • Design Engineer at Electric Boat, Groton • 42 years of local veterans he Soldiers’ Sailors’ and Marines’ Fund of Connecticut • Submarine Group nt, Special Olympics “Medal of Honor” • Veterans’ benefits service

American Veterans. Chairm

MWhfopse

CLASS OF 2006 James S. Tierney (West Hartford)

. Tierney is a career U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, the Korean

ar, and the Vietnam War, serving as both a sailor and Naval offics advocated for veterans issues before the General Assembly, as a nding member of the Connecticut Veterans Coalition Forum, and hvided significant leadership to many veterans’ organizations, incvice as chairman of the new West Hartford Veterans Memorial.

CLASS OF 2005

Norman Warren VanCor (Harwinton)

t in the United States Marines duSergeans awarded the Navy Cross for his heroi

in 1969. He has been active in advocating for veterans and has volunteered his time in serving on community and state boards and commissions. He is a master gardener and taught gardening to the inmates at the Cheshire Correctional Institute to help them with transitional employment upon their release. He was an original Corporator of Bradley Memorial Hospital in Southington. President of

Commission, Alternate Member of the Connecticut Judicial Review Council and member of the Council on Environmental Quality. He was inducted into the American Diabetes HallMerit and selected as one of the 50 most influential people in Connecticut in the fight against diabete

CLASS OF 2009

Daniel A. Vece, Jr., of Clinton

Daniel Vece enlisted in the U.S. Marihigh school. He saw fighting at the BIwo Jima Memorial inAssociation and is served as First Sel13 years. A lifetime mC

ne Corps in 1943 before graduating from attle of Iwo Jima and is an organizer of the

New Brit wo Jima Survivors

f Selectmen for ember of the Clinton Volunteer Fire Department and Fire

in

e to join so Chamber of

erce “Man of the Year Award” and the Clinton Spirit Award. He is an active member of the American Legion, VFW and Lions Clubs. Mr. Vece was co-owner of Shore TV and Appliance Store from 1957 through 1982.

M oth ochaE

Edwa(Killingly and As Posthumously)

Mr. Whitaker, a native of Killingly and graduate of Ashford public schools, he First

Ral

r

[AcceMr. Whitaker’s great-grea

ain. He is a member of the Itional speaker with other Iwa frequent na o Jima survivors. He

ectman of Clinton and held office on the Board o

hief for 25 years, the Clinton Fire Department’s annual “Firefighter of the Year”ef Vece. During his tenure as chief he helped bring regional 24-hour EMS s and was appointed by Governor Ella Grasso to serve as Chairman of the

ntation Committee, which made Connecticut the second state in the nation a former senior member of the state Economic Development Commission and n. He has received the Clinton Distinguished Citizen Award, the

award is named after Chservices to shoreline towEmergency 911 Implemthe E-911 Program. He iPublic Works CommissiComm

CLASS OF 2006 Carl Roderick Venditto (Southington)

r. Venditto is a U.S. Marine veteran of the Korean War-era who served b

n active duty and in the Marine Corps Reserves for 35 years as a ommissioned officer. A longtime public school teacher and administrator, he as assisted Reservists for over 20 years with employer and mobilization issues s an ombudsman and advocate, including service as chairman of DoD’s mployer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee for Connecticut.

CLASS OF 2006

rd Washburn Whitaker hford) (Awarded

fought in 82 engagements during the Civil War as a member of tegiment Connecticut Cavalry Volunteers rising to the rank of brevet

brigadier general at the age of 23. He was awarded the Congressional Medof Honor for his gallant actions at Reams Station, Virginia in June 1864. After the War, he served as superintendent of the U.S. Capitol Building and was appointed postmaster of Hartford by President Grant. During his post-wayears in Connecticut, he organized and led several new veterans’ organizations. pting are the nominator: John Regan and t-great grandnephew: Timmy Stearns, In Civil War Uniform]

CLASS OF 2009 Homer L. Wise

(posthumous award;formerly of Stamford)

Homer Lee Wise, a U.S. Army staff sergeant, was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his courageous actions on June 14, 1944, in Magliano, Italy. He landed in Salerno, Italy on September 9, 1943, and continued his valor in action throughout Italy, including Naples and Rome, until August 1944 when he participated in the invasion of Southern France. He was pulled from combat in November 1944 to be presented the Medal of Honor by Lieutenant General Alexander M. Patch, Commander of the Seventh Army in Epinal, France. Sgt. Wise became one of the most highly decorated infantrymen of World War II – a recipient of the Silver Star, Bronze Star with Valor Device, Purple Heart with two Oak Leaf Clusters,

Italian Military Cross of Valor, French Croix DeGuerre and the Combat Infantryman’s Badge. Sgt. Wise was discharged in 1945 and reenlisted in the Army in 1947, serving in multiple recruiting and administrative positions in Stamford, Germany, France, Italy and Ft. Devens, Massachusetts. He received the high honor of being selected as one of six honora tion of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in 1958 under President Dwight D. Eisenhower. He retired from the U.S. Army in 1966 with the rank of master sergeant and then worked in the Stamford area, where he was known locally for his humility regarding his heroic deeds and frequent individual kindnesses to neighbors and strangers.

ry pall bearers at the dedica